Your guide to Porcelain Veneers

Q. What is a Veneer?

Porcelain veneers are thin facings of porcelain, which are bonded to the front surface of a tooth

Q. Why do I need a Veneer?

Veneers are used to cover the surface of a tooth and to improve its appearance. This is appropriate for mild discolouration, malformation, fractured teeth, toothwear, closing space or modifying shape. Veneers allow this to be done with very little removal of tooth tissue.

Q. What will the treatment involve?

Initially local anaesthetic is given so that no discomfort will be felt. The front surface of the tooth will then be contoured to allow room for the veneer and still maintain the correct width of the tooth. A silicone impression will then be taken which is sent with an impression of the opposing jaw to the laboratory for the veneer to be made. Depending on the amount of tooth tissue that had to be removed the dentist may apply a small layer of plastic resin to the tooth to prevent any sensitivity whilst the veneer is being manufactured.

Q. How many appointments will this take?

The provision of a veneer requires a minimum of two appointments, one for the trimming of the tooth and a second for the cementing of the veneer. The appointments usually need to be at least ten working days apart.

Q. Will the treatment last forever?

With six monthly dental examinations and regular hygienist appointments, the average lifespan of a veneer is 5-10 years. Good dental care at home will help the veneer to last as long as possible and as with crowns and bridges, the use of a mouthguard whilst playing sport is advised.

Q. What other treatment options are available?

A large number of patients are dissatisfied with the appearance of their smile. This can be because of discolouration of the natural teeth, stained fillings, chipped, misshapen and uneven teeth. Cosmetic dentistry can address all of these problems by the use of tooth whitening, composite bonding, recontouring of teeth, porcelain crowns and veneers.